Leeds United: Deal me in boss! - Clayton INTERVIEW

Phil Hay

Adam Clayton is optimistic of reaching a deal to extend his stay at Leeds United, admitting he’d be “over the moon” if manager Neil Warnock includes him in his plans for next season.

The midfielder said he was set on negotiating a new contract at Elland Road with Warnock expected to retain him after a full season in United’s first team.

A clear-out of players is due to take place at Thorp Arch when this season ends, in the wake of United’s failure to reach the Championship play-offs, and the list of professionals free to move on is likely to include a number whose contracts run until the summer of 2013.

Clayton is tied to Leeds for another year but looks likely to be handed a fresh deal, following on from offers made by Warnock to club captain Robert Snodgrass and winger Aidan White.

The 23-year-old has grown in stature this season, establishing himself in the centre of United’s midfield, and Warnock recently held preliminary talks with his agent with a view to extending his contract.

“Hopefully the gaffer wants to keep me on board. If he does then I’d be delighted to stay. I want to stay in his plans and if I can play week-in, week-out for Leeds next season then I’ll be over the moon.”

Leeds signed Clayton for an undisclosed fee from Manchester City in 2010 and he has played regularly under both Warnock and previous manager Simon Grayson this season.

Warnock revealed last week that formal contract offers to Clayton and top scorer Ross McCormack were in the process of being drawn up, saying: “We’ve spoken to Ross’ man and Clayton’s man.

“We haven’t actually given them written offers yet but that will be coming.”